Restaurateurs
Welcome to DiRōNA
Since 1990, North America’s most prestigious organization has been dedicated to celebrating the finest restaurateurs and chefs. Being a part of the Distinguished Restaurants of North America means joining an exclusive community of exceptional culinary leaders and gaining global recognition for your restaurant’s commitment to excellence. Members enjoy opportunities for networking and the privilege of displaying the DiRōNA Award of Excellence, which signals to discerning diners worldwide the superior standards of your establishment. Additionally, your staff can access educational opportunities through scholarships, fostering growth and talent within your team. Embrace the distinction that comes with being a part of DiRōNA and share your culinary achievements with the world.
The Four Pillars a DiRōNA Awarded Restaurant
Culinary
Culinary excellence is at the heart of DiRōNA’s mission, reflecting our commitment to elevating the dining experience across North America. For a restaurant to receive the DiRōNA Award of Excellence, it must demonstrate a mastery of culinary skills, a dedication to creativity, and a deep respect for quality ingredients and preparation techniques. This award is not just a testament to superior food but also to the thoughtful crafting of a complete dining experience—from impeccable service to the ambiance that enhances every dish. DiRōNA recognizes that exceptional cuisine is the foundation of any great restaurant, and our award celebrates those who consistently push the boundaries of culinary artistry, setting a standard that others aspire to reach. It’s a mark of distinction that signifies a restaurant’s unwavering commitment to delighting guests with every meal, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Beverage
Wine and cocktails play a pivotal role in DiRōNA’s dedication to celebrating outstanding dining experiences, as they are essential in elevating a meal from satisfying to truly memorable. A carefully curated wine list and expertly crafted cocktails complement the flavors of each dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. For a restaurant to earn the DiRōNA Award of Excellence, it must demonstrate a thoughtful approach to its beverage program—one that balances innovation, depth, and an understanding of pairing. Whether through rare vintages, signature cocktails, or a selection that perfectly reflects the restaurant’s style, these beverages contribute to the refined, elevated atmosphere DiRōNA seeks to honor. The ability to craft an experience that integrates exceptional cuisine with equally impressive wine and cocktails is a hallmark of the finest dining establishments, and it’s a key criterion for this prestigious recognition.
Service
Service is a cornerstone of DiRōNA’s mission to recognize and celebrate the best in fine dining. Exceptional service elevates the entire dining experience, transforming a meal into a memorable occasion. For a restaurant to receive the DiRōNA Award of Excellence, it must demonstrate a commitment to providing attentive, knowledgeable, and welcoming service that aligns with the high standards expected in North America’s finest dining establishments. Great service ensures that every guest feels valued and well cared for, creating an environment where diners can relax and enjoy the culinary and beverage offerings to their fullest. It is this dedication to hospitality that sets DiRōNA-awarded restaurants apart, offering a level of care that discerning diners expect and appreciate.
Ambiance
Ambiance plays a key part in the DiRōNA Award of Excellence, as it sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. For a restaurant to qualify for this prestigious recognition, the atmosphere must go beyond just aesthetics—it should create a welcoming and engaging environment that enhances the enjoyment of every meal. The ambiance includes everything from lighting and music to décor and spatial design, contributing to how guests feel from the moment they walk in. DiRōNA values how these elements come together to complement the cuisine and service, creating a holistic experience that diners can fully immerse themselves in. A carefully curated ambiance helps to tell the restaurant’s story, providing a unique identity that makes each visit special and memorable, which is why it is a key criterion for earning a DiRōNA award.
Why Apply For The DiRōNA Award of Excellence
At DiRōNA, we proudly recognize the dedication, hard-work, and excellence that set exceptional restaurants apart. Our award is not just a symbol of success—it’s your pathway to:
- Increase Restaurant Exposure
- Attract Discerning Diners
- Join our DiRōNA Community
Your commitment to exceptional dining is what makes your restaurant stand out. DiRōNA celebrates this dedication, placing you among the best in the culinary world.
We understand that running a successful restaurant is about more than just food. It’s about creating unforgettable moments, offering impeccable service, and maintaining the highest standards.
For over three decades, the DiRōNA award has been the authority in exceptional dining, honoring restaurants that exemplify culinary mastery, outstanding hospitality, and an unfortgetable experience.
DiRōNA In Napa September 2025
What an unforgettable week we had in Napa, surrounded by talented restaurateurs and chefs from across North America. One of the highlights was a fireside chat with Ted Balestreri of The Sardine Factory, who shared his remarkable journey—from opening a single restaurant to building an enduring legacy. His story was nothing short of inspiring.
We were also honored to be joined by renowned winery owner Jean-Charles Boisset, whose energy and passion added excitement throughout the week. His celebrated wines were featured at both our Welcome Reception and Gala Dinner, making each gathering even more memorable.
A heartfelt congratulations to Rina Tonon of Café Cortina, who was officially inducted into the DiRōNA Hall of Fame, presented by our long-standing partners at Ecolab. And a special thank you to Citrus Springs (PepsiCo) for hosting an engaging Lunch & Learn at CIA-Copia, where we explored the importance of premium bar mixers amidst the booming demand for cocktails and mocktails.
From wine blending to caviar tasting, every experience this week was extraordinary. Thank you to everyone who attended—your support makes DiRōNA possible. We can’t wait to see you at DiRōNA 2026, planned for the U.S. East Coast.
DiRōNA Hall of Fame
Nominating a restaurateur or chef for the DiRōNA Hall of Fame is a way to celebrate their lasting impact on the culinary industry and their dedication to excellence. This recognition is reserved for those with 25 years or more in the industry who have not only shaped exceptional dining experiences but also made a meaningful difference within their local communities. By nominating a deserving individual, you help honor their passion, leadership, and the influence they’ve had on both the guests they serve and the broader restaurant industry. It’s a chance to highlight their journey, showcase their contributions, and ensure their legacy is celebrated among North America’s most respected culinary leaders. This distinction also inspires future generations of chefs and restaurateurs to strive for the same high standards and dedication to their craft.
The Distinguished Restaurants of North America (DiRōNA) is proud to announce the addition of restaurateurs Rex Chandler of Chandlers Steakhouse (Boise, ID) and Rina Tonon of Café | Cortina (Farmington Hills, MI) into the DiRōNA Hall of Fame for 2025.
Testimonials
Ted Balestreri - The Sardine Factory, Monterey, CA
DiRōNA is very important to keep fine dining alive, to give restaurateurs encouragement to keep that high standard of dining. DiRōNA is that vehicle right now.
Chef Kasey Kaplan - Cafe Central, El Paso, TX
I have tremendous respect for DiRōNA. To be one of the top restaurants with DiRōNA, it’s an incredible honor for us, we couldn’t be more humble by it.
Chef Jasper Mirabile Jr - Jasper’s, Kansas City, MO
We’ve made so many friendships through DiRōNA that we even carry them on today. DiRōNA holds a very special place in the hearts of the Mirabile family.
Chef Bert Cutino - The Sardine Factory, Monterey, CA
An award program where you get a chance to meet other winners over the years. I would’ve never met these people, Chefs from all over the country and all around the world. That’s what DiRōNA does.
DiRōNA News
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